Stainless Steel Double Direction Thrust Ball Bearing

Stainless Steel Double Direction Thrust Ball Bearings are precision components designed to handle axial loads in both directions. Featuring a separable construction with a shaft washer, two seat washers, and dual ball-cage assemblies, they offer high performance, corrosion resistance, and adaptability across a wide range of industrial and precision applications.

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What Are Double Direction Thrust Ball Bearings?

Double direction thrust ball bearings are engineered to support axial loads in two opposing directions. They consist of three main components: a central shaft washer, two housing (seat) washers, and two ball-cage assemblies. This design allows the bearing to accommodate bi-directional axial forces while maintaining a compact and serviceable structure.

Bore Size Range

These bearings are available in bore diameters from 10mm up to 150mm, making them suitable for compact machinery as well as medium-sized industrial applications.

Materials and Design Options

Material Choices

Chrome Steel: Offers excellent load capacity and low noise; commonly used in standard applications.
Stainless Steel (440C, 304, 316): Provides corrosion resistance for food-grade, chemical, and marine environments.
Ceramic Hybrid: Suitable for high-speed and high-temperature applications where reduced weight and enhanced durability are critical.
Plastic: Selected for non-magnetic, lightweight, or special environmental conditions.

Construction Features

The bearing is separable and consists of a shaft washer, two seat washers, and two ball-cage assemblies. This structure allows for easy installation, disassembly, and maintenance.

Cage Types

Stamped Steel Cages: Used when the outer diameter is ≤250mm; these are lightweight and cost-effective.
Solid Cages: Preferred for larger sizes (>250mm) due to their superior strength and heat resistance.

Precision Grades

Double direction thrust ball bearings are manufactured according to ABEC standards, from ABEC-1 (general industrial precision) to ABEC-9 (ultra-high precision). Factors to consider when selecting a grade include bore and outer diameter fits, axial runout, and acoustic performance.

Lubrication Methods

Proper lubrication is essential to ensure performance and longevity. Two main options are:

Grease Lubrication: Ideal for sealed environments and moderate speed operations.
Oil Lubrication: Recommended for high-speed or high-temperature applications where heat dissipation is critical.

It’s vital to apply the correct amount of lubricant. Under-lubrication may cause premature wear, while over-lubrication can increase resistance and reduce bearing speed.

Temperature Tolerance

Standard chrome steel double direction thrust ball bearings operate continuously up to 120°C and intermittently up to 150°C. With special heat treatment and high-temperature grease, custom options are available for more demanding thermal conditions.

Applications of Double Direction Thrust Ball Bearings

These bearings are widely used in equipment and machines requiring axial load support in both directions. Common applications include:

Automotive systems
Electric motors and generators
Medical devices
Food processing and packaging machinery
Fitness and sports equipment
Construction and heavy machinery
Precision instruments such as flow and gas meters
Robotics and automation
Printing presses and machine tools
Oil rigs, cranes, and rolling mills

Why Choose Our Bearings?

With many years of expertise in thrust bearing manufacturing and design, we offer not only high-quality products but also complete bearing solutions. Our inventory includes thousands of models, including rare and customized versions ready for same-day shipment.

We specialize in serving international clients, particularly in North America. Over 60% of our customers are based in the U.S.. Our miniature and stainless steel bearings are used in high-end applications, including Mercedes-Benz S-Class center consoles.

Engineering Support & Customization

Our technical team provides tailored solutions based on your exact working conditions. Whether you need CAD drawings, bearing selection advice, or technical consultations, we’re ready to support your goals from design through to delivery.